Report: Toronto Raptors Looking to Move Jose Calderon?

Last summer, the Raptors were on the verge of trading Jose Calderon to the Charlotte Bobcats, in a trade which would have sent Tyson Chandler and Boris Diaw to Toronto.

Once again, it appears that the Raptors may be looking to move Calderon, according to sources.

“In a recent interview with the Spanish newspaper Marca, Raptors point guard Jose Calderon didn’t deny that he’d “like to have the opportunity to compete for something”.

That doesn’t mean he’s poised to ask for a trade — “I don’t think so, that’s not me, that’s not my personality,” Calderon said — but the 30-year-old left the undeniable sense that he wouldn’t oppose a move away from the rebuilding Raps if the opportunity materializes.

You can safely assume, meanwhile, that the Raps feel the same way. Sources with knowledge of Toronto’s thinking say that the team is not just going to give Calderon away, especially when he’s back to supplying a typically efficient 10.6 points and 8.7 assists nightly, but I’m told that the Raps are indeed open to moving him.”

Jose Calderon certainly has some trade value in this league, with teams such as the New York Knicks and LA Lakers desperate for a point guard.The Raps could try to move Calderon to save some salary, or to acquire value for the future, moving him for assets such as draft picks or prospects.

Calderon, 30, may be approaching the end of his prime, and the Raps certainly won’t be contending with Calderon leading the way. The Raps have realized that Jose isn’t part of the future of this club, and are trying to get the best return they can for him.

Ultimately, Calderon has been a very solid point guard for the Raptors, but his time may be up. The reigns should be given to the young Jerryd Bayless if he can continue to consistently produce. It will be sad to see Calderon go, but he’s played well for the Raps and it’s time for both parties to move on.